After 13 years, center back Danilo Silva returns to MLS and signs with LAFC

Danilo Silva played five games under Bob Bradley as an 18-year-old with the NY/NJ MetroStars back in 2005. Thirteen years later, Silva will once again be coached by Bradley, this time at LAFC.

The club announced the signing of the now 31-year-old center back on Friday, acquiring him on a five-month loan from Brazilian side Internacional after acquiring Silva's rights from the New York Red Bulls in exchange for a fourth round selection in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft.

Silva, signed using Targeted Allocation Money (TAM), will occupy an international slot and will be added to the roster pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and P-1 Visa.

“Danilo is a versatile defender who will be an important player for us as we continue improving the competitiveness of our team,” said EVP of Soccer Operations and general manager John Thorrington. “His experience playing in the Champions League and at a high level in Europe and Brazil will be a great complement to our roster.”

Silva joins the Black & Gold following a second stint with Internacional of Brazil’s top division, where he appeared in 19 matches over the last two campaigns. From 2010-17, Silva won two Ukrainian league titles, two Ukrainian Cups, and two Ukrainian Super Cups with Dynamo Kiev.

In his seven seasons with the club, Silva tallied three goals and 19 assists in 222 matches across all competitions, including appearances in Champions League and Europa League.

“Danilo is an experienced defender who will bring competition to our backline,” said LAFC head coach Bob Bradley. “I’m excited to work with him again and I’m confident he will have an immediate impact with the rest of the group.”

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